Tensions between Venezuela and Guyana over the Essequibo continue to rise following the former's referendum over recognizing the region as part of Venezuela and posterior actions in that direction. During the past days, President Nicolás Maduro said he would grant licenses to drill for oil there and that he would introduce a bill to annex the Essequibo. In response, Guyana put its army at its highest level of alert and announced a joint aerial drill with the United States.
Venezuela has historically claimed sovereignty claim over the territory, with the rising efforts coinciding with the discovery of vast gas and oil reserves.
